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Every day man’s “best friends” are beaten, neglected, or forced to struggle for survival in Belize. Left in unsanitary conditions with no food or water, they have little hope of surviving as productive pets. But a group of friends have taken on the role of defenders and plan to rescue abused pets, nurse them back to health and find adoptive homes for them in the future.

Michelle Rudon, the owner of Genesis Arts, is the spokesperson of the newly formed group. According to her, the number of abused pets is on the rise and those involved in the rehabilitation project are simply concerned Belizeans who love animals and want to see them treated in a humane manner.

An interview with her revealed the story of “Baby,” who was found in its owner’s yard tied to a tree for an undisclosed time period. When found, Baby’s neck area was bald with patches of exposed wounds, due to a tight leash.

The dog had not had a bath in some time and her coat was filthy. An unattended tumor at the top of her forelegs the size of an orange was bulging from her body and obvious hairless patches dotted her entire body.

Upon some inquiry it was determined that the “pet” was never released from its tight, gripping leash, was left out in the elements – rain or shine and was left generally unatten-ded for a lengthy period of time.

Upon learning of her suffering, the group not yet formally named, requested she be turned over to them. The owners agreed and Baby is now being nursed by the vets at the Animal Medical Center.

The tumor will be treated over the course of the next three months and prospective homes have been shortlisted for Baby.

This story is not unique to Belize. There are many dogs and other animals who have suffered at the hands of their owners. But this latest example took wings when the story was posted on facebook. Animal lovers from around the world posted searing comments and an outpour of support was the ultimate result.

Rudon’s post said the following, “We are tired of the owners who chain their dogs all day long in the hot sun, pouring rain, and other elements. We are tired of owners who beat their dogs . We are tired of owners who don’t feed their dogs and don’t care for them as they should. If you don’t love animals, THEN DON’T GET ONE, period!”

It went on to invite those who are interested in raising awareness for the cause and join the group. If interested, call 223-2448 or 671-5525.

When asked, Rudon revealed that future plans include establishing a dog kennel, raising awareness on animal cruelty and finding adoptive homes for the rehabilitated dogs.

Center.

The tumor will be treated over the course of the next three months and prospective homes have been shortlisted for Baby.

This story is not unique to Belize. There are many dogs and other animals who have suffered at the hands of their owners. But this latest example took wings when the story was posted on Facebook. Animal lovers from around the world posted searing comments and an outpour of support was the ultimate result.

Rudon’s post said the following, “We are tired of the owners who chain their dogs all day long in the hot sun, pouring rain, and other elements. We are tired of owners who beat their dogs . “We are tired of owners who don’t feed their dogs and don’t care for them as they should. If you don’t love animals, THEN DON’T GET ONE, period!”

It went on to invite those who are interested in raising awareness for the cause and join the group. If interested, call 223-2448 or 671-5525.

When asked, Rudon revealed that future plans include establishing a dog kennel, raising awareness on animal cruelty and finding adoptive homes for the rehabilitated dogs.